Circuit Chautauqua: From Rural Education to Popular Entertainment in Early Twentieth Century America

In the late 19th century the chautauqua movement became a popular form of adult education and entertainment in the United States. With noted lyceum speakers (such as Teddy Roosevelt and William Jennings Bryan) and local talent, the movement spread throughout the country and was particularly popular in the rural areas of the Midwest.

An overview of the lyceum and of adult education in 19th century America is followed by an examination of the rise of the circuit chautauqua. Its popularity during the 1920s is detailed as is its demise, brought on by the Great Depression and the rise of the film industry.

John E. Tapia teaches at Missouri Western State College in St. Joseph.